Operate machinery to install roof support bolts in underground mine.
SOC: 47-5043.00
Common Job Titles
Bolter
Roof Bolter
Roof Bolter Operator
Underground Roof Bolter
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate roof bolting machinery and equipment in underground mine environments, following safety protocols and regulatory requirements.
Developing
KnowledgeEvaluate roof and underground mine structure integrity using visual inspection and monitoring equipment to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Developing
Hands-onPerform installation of roof support bolts and anchoring systems using boom roof bolters and self-propelled bolting machines under time constraints.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze equipment malfunctions and mechanical failures during mining operations to troubleshoot and resolve issues independently.
Developing
Hands-onExecute preventive maintenance and repairs on roof bolting equipment using hydraulic disconnects, torque drivers, and pressure gauges to maintain operational readiness.
Developing
KnowledgeApply public safety and mining regulations when planning and executing roof support operations in hazardous underground conditions.
Developing
Hands-onOperate methane monitors and environmental sensing equipment to continuously monitor underground atmospheric conditions for crew safety.
Developing
MindsetEngage crew members in safety communications and operational coordination when directing roof bolting activities in confined underground spaces.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate training procedures and operational techniques for roof bolting systems to new and less experienced mining personnel in production settings.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate pneumatic rock drilling tools and portable rock drills to prepare roof surfaces for bolt installation in varied geological conditions.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret production and processing requirements for roof support installation balancing safety standards with operational efficiency targets.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Roof Bolters, Mining (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
2,230
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $50,880. 25th percentile: U.S. $67,110. 50th percentile: U.S. $76,640. 75th percentile: U.S. $80,230. 90th percentile: U.S. $87,420. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$50,880
10% of workers earn the following or more
$87,420
Workers on average earn
$74,760
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Production and Processing3.7/5
Education and Training3.5/5
Public Safety and Security3.5/5
Mechanical3.5/5
Law and Government3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
